Jose Reyes steps up preparation for season after rejoining Mets Thursday following World Baseball Classic.

Martinez tossed six innings in two appearances against the Netherlands, limiting the Dutch to one hit while striking out six and walking none. And Reyes said he saw a distinct uptick in Martinez's performance compared with last season in Queens.

"Unbelievable. He was fantastic," said Reyes, who returned to Mets camp Thursday, after the Dominican's shocking ouster with a pair of losses to the Netherlands. "He looked like he was loose and comfortable on the mound, too. He threw a lot of strikes. He threw hard, too. I think 91, 90 mph. Last year he had some tightness in his shoulder, but now he looks relaxed. He knows what he's doing there. He looks ready. Whoever signs him, he's going to do good."

While the Mets profess no current interest, the Dodgers have been linked to Martinez. Still, GM Ned Colletti told MLB.com: "A lot of things would have to fall into place."

"He said he just wants to go someplace he can be comfortable," Reyes said. "He'd like to pitch here. He'd like to come back here. But I don't know what the deal is here."

When it was noted that no one expected to see Reyes this soon back in camp, the shortstop replied: "I didn't expect to see you guys, either."

Nevertheless, the Dominican's frustration worked out well for the Mets. Reyes, who returned with Fernando Tatis, can now resume preparations for the season.

Jerry Manuel said he'll tread lightly with Reyes early on, playing him Saturday and then not again until Wednesday. Manuel plans for the shortstop to get a lot of work in the batting cage in the coming days.

"I'm going to have a chance to work here and get ready for the season with my teammates again," Reyes said. "That's always good for me. I need that. You work there, but it's not the same. It's not like we do here. We're running a lot here. It's not like that there. It's more like you take ground balls, hit BP and that's it - go to the game."

Reyes started two of the Dominican's three games at shortstop and went 1-for-9 with two walks. He revealed that manager Felipe Alou had asked Omar Minaya for permission to use him at second base during the WBC, and the Mets GM declined.

As for Manuel suggesting it's likely that Reyes will return to the leadoff spot for the season, the shortstop added: "Of course I'm going to be happy. That's where I hit all my life."